Learn more about usage, cautions, and possible side effects .
Chemical Name: ACYCLOVIR (ay-SYE-kloe-veer)
This medicine is an antiviral used to treat genital herpes and some other herpes simplex infections of the skin or mucous membranes. It may also be used to treat other conditions as determined by your doctor.
INFORM YOUR DOCTOR OR PHARMACIST of all prescription and over-the-counter medicine that you are taking. Inform your doctor of any other medical conditions, allergies, pregnancy, or breast-feeding.
Follow the directions for using this medicine provided by your doctor. For best results, begin using this medicine as soon as you notice any symptoms of herpes. Wash and completely dry the affected area. Use a finger cot or rubber glove to apply this medicine. Gently rub the medicine in until it is evenly distributed. Apply enough medicine to cover all sores. Wash your hands after using this medicine. STORE THIS MEDICINE at room temperature between 59 and 77 degrees F (15 and 25 degrees C), in a tightly closed container, away from heat, moisture, and light. TO CLEAR UP YOUR INFECTION COMPLETELY, continue using this medicine for the full course of treatment even if you feel better in a few days. Do not miss any doses. IF YOU MISS A DOSE OF THIS MEDICINE, use it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule.
DO NOT USE THIS MEDICINE if you have had an allergic reaction to it, to valacyclovir, or are allergic to any ingredient in this product. DO NOT EXCEED THE RECOMMENDED DOSE or use this medicine for longer than prescribed without checking with your doctor. DO NOT GET THIS MEDICINE IN YOUR EYES or on the inside of your nose or mouth. If this medicine gets in your eyes, flush them with cool tap water. THIS MEDICINE WILL NOT PREVENT the spread of infection to others. DO NOT USE THIS MEDICINE to prevent future infections. FOR WOMEN: IF YOU PLAN ON BECOMING PREGNANT, discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using this medicine during pregnancy. IT IS UNKNOWN IF THIS MEDICINE IS EXCRETED in breast milk. IF YOU ARE OR WILL BE BREAST-FEEDING while you are using this medicine, check with your doctor or pharmacist to discuss the risks to your baby. Do not breastfeed your baby if you have active herpes lesions near or on your breasts.
SIDE EFFECTS that may occur while using this medicine include mild pain, burning, or stinging when the medicine is first applied to the skin. If they continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor. An allergic reaction to this medicine is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, or trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist. This is not a complete list of all side effects that may occur. If you have questions about side effects, contact your healthcare provider. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Drug interactions can result in unwanted side effects or prevent a medicine from doing its job. Use our drug interaction checker to find out if your medicines interact with each other. Check drug interactions
If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. This medicine may be harmful if swallowed.
DO NOT SHARE THIS MEDICINE with others for whom it was not prescribed. DO NOT USE THIS MEDICINE for other health conditions. KEEP THIS MEDICINE out of the reach of children. IF USING THIS MEDICINE FOR AN EXTENDED PERIOD OF TIME, obtain refills before your supply runs out.